CAMBRIDGESHIRE businesses are now able to take advantage of up to �2,500 recruitment and on-the-job training subsidies, as an incentive to take on people who have been looking for work for six months or more. The Government recognises that there are cost

CAMBRIDGESHIRE businesses are now able to take advantage of up to �2,500 recruitment and on-the-job training subsidies, as an incentive to take on people who have been looking for work for six months or more.

The Government recognises that there are costs associated with recruitment and that some employers are reluctant to take on people who do not have recent or relevant work experience, the Department for Work and Pensions said.

Employers are offered a �1,000 subsidy and the chance to claim up to �1,500 worth of in-work training for jobs that will last for a minimum of 26 weeks for at least 16 hours per week.

Those who have been on Jobseeker's Allowance for over six months will have a "recruitment subsidy voucher" that the employer can use to claim the �1,000 cash in two instalments. These are paid when the voucher is received, and when the new employee completes 26 weeks of work.

Meanwhile employers are also able to try out a potential employee for an agreed period using "work trials". This is a no-obligation trial, so that people with no experience of a certain type of work can see whether it suits them.

Employers could also be eligible to claim a Train to Gain grant of up to �1,500, managed by the Learning and Skills Council.

INFORMATION: To find out more about the Recruitment Subsidy or Work Trials, employers should visit www.direct.gov.uk or call the local Jobcentre Plus office and ask to speak to the local labour market recruitment adviser. For more information on the LSC call 0800 015 5545 or visit www.lsc.gov.uk